New DIY Kit Aims to Resurrect “Classic GameCube Controller Feel”
Update [Sat 21st Sep, 2024 06:00 BST]:
Yes, the Kickstarter for the ‘GC Ultimate Controller Kit’ is now “fully funded.” Creator Mitch Cairns has also provided an update, thanking everyone for their enthusiasm and support.
Here’s my “to-do list” for the rest of September:
- Send payment for the mold immediately so they can start the machining process. (Estimated completion time is November for initial injection molding samples)
- We are waiting until mid October to place the remainder of the order to determine the appropriate order quantity.
- Let’s see how many goals we can unlock!
A list of “new” add-ons has also been shared:
- Joystick Set (If you want two left joysticks instead of the C button, this is your chance to buy another set)
- Bald Button Set (Translucent White Only, but Compatible with OEM Controllers. Color May Vary and Be Transparent Instead)
- Ergo Triggers + Dual Z (Light Gray)
- Split Dpad Set (Can be transparent or frosted white)
Screwdrivers have also been added:
“This controller is assembled with the sole requirement of T6 and T8 screwdrivers. I want to wait until I have solid confirmation on the price and I can confirm that We will include these screwdrivers in every kit. Including them is extremely cost effective. These tools are fairly cheap and if you have a better drill bit set then go for it. For someone just building a controller, it will do the job perfectly.”
Original [Tue 17th Sep, 2024 00:05 BST]:
If you’re an avid GameCube controller user, you might want to check out this new Kickstarter from Mitch Cairns of Hand Held legend. Over the past three years, he has developed the ‘PROGCC series’ of competitive switching controllers and now he has launched this campaign for the ‘Ultimate GC Controller’.
These kits have been used by “top players” and include a Hall effect joystick, split d-pad design, a swappable port plate, mechanical and analogue trigger options, and HD rumble. They run on firmware codenamed ‘Hoja’ which is compatible with the Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040) and also include Bluetooth support thanks to the integration of an ESP32 microcontroller.
This controller is not only compatible with the GameCube (thanks to the detachable USB Type-C to GC cable), but also compatible with the NES, SNES, N64, Switch, Android, and PC. It includes a configuration app to calibrate the joystick and remap the buttons. You can see Full list of features on the Kickstarter page.
This project has passed the halfway mark, with 212,000 USD Full funding is required. If funding exceeds the initial goal, new colors will be unlocked between $350,000 and $550,000, including fiery red, spice orange, indigo, platinum, and symphonic blue options.
Are you interested in a product like this? Let us know in the comments.
